Overview
- Reports say the Padres have checked in with the Mets about trading for Kodai Senga, but the contact is described as an exploratory inquiry rather than advanced talks.
- Senga has struggled this season, producing a very high ERA and short outings after a July 31 appearance in which he worked effectively for only part of his start.
- Senga is owed about $4.7 million for the rest of 2026 and roughly $14 million for 2027, which adds a financial hurdle for any team pursuing him.
- San Diego's front office under A.J. Preller has an urgent need for starters who can provide innings and a track record of pursuing veteran pitching options at deadlines.
- Any trade would face time pressure before the August 4 deadline and would likely require the Mets to eat salary or accept an undesirable return to move Senga given his recent results and injury history.